Masonry Restoration by Zaps Masonry Contracting in North Bay
Like all things, structures built with masonry don't last forever. Even though masonry construction is known for building things that can stand tall for centuries, the truth is that to extend the service life of anything built through masonry will require restoration at some point. And when your building does need some tender loving care from a certified masonry restoration expert, give Zaps Masonry Contracting a call today.
Zaps Masonry Contracting has been offering top notch masonry restoration services to commercial and residential buildings in the area for many years. I have built my business on providing the most efficient and detail oriented masonry services in the area. Honesty is always my priority because I believe being upfront is what has built my reputation as a company that cares about my clients and takes pride in the work I do.
To speak to me directly, don't hesitate to call Zaps Masonry today.
Signs Your Building Needs Masonry Restoration
Buildings can go between 50 and 100 years before they require professional masonry restoration services, which can make it difficult to know when a restoration should be performed. Of course, there are plenty of external factors that can accelerate the deterioration of stone, brick and mortar. Here are some things to look for to know whether or not your building can benefit from Zaps Masonry Contracting's masonry restoration services.
Portions of Brick Are Covered with White Powdery Substance
This is known as efflorescence and it is usually caused by excess moisture building up in the brick wall over a long period of time. The moisture inside the brick carries soluble salt or dissolves salt from the surrounding mortar. As the salty moisture moves to the outer surface and evaporates, the salt is left behind in this white, powdery deposit. It's an indication that the wall is not drying properly.
Diagonal Cracking in the Bricks
Cracking can be caused by a number of different things. The most common culprit is a deteriorated shelf angle. If a shelf angle is failing, it is applying a ton of pressure to the veneer wall. Over time, this creates a very dangerous situation as the bricks are holding more weight than they can handle.
Cracked or Missing Mortar
Even the smallest cracks in masonry joints needs to be fixed right away, as any sized crack can let water seep in. This is only made worse if there are pieces of mortar missing altogether. Repairing and replacing mortar can be difficult as the new mixture needs to match the original. This is just one of the reasons why you shouldn't settle for anything less than Zaps Masonry Contracting's expertise to conduct your restoration.
How I Restore Masonry
At Zaps Masonry Contracting, I have a number of different techniques I use to restore commercial and residential structures or buildings to their former glory. It all ultimately depends on the present integrity of the structure. After I have conducted a full assessment of the structure or building in question, I will use either or a combination of:
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rebuilding
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replacement
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tuckpointing
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chemical cleaning
Rebuilding involves removing parts of the old masonry section and incorporating both new and salvaged materials. I try to use salvaged materials as often as possible, but it depends on the state that they are in. Some brick and stone are too weathered to be reincorporated.
Replacement differs from rebuilding because it involves completely removing all of the existing masonry and replacing it with the new materials. This technique often is cause for pause with certain building owners as they don’t want the look or feel of their building or structure to drastically change through restoration. Luckily, the replacement material is chosen specifically to match the original structure in colour and texture.
Tuckpointing is the most common technique I use because it is the repair of mortar on a masonry wall. I use electrical grinders and hand chisels to ground out the mortar joint and then brush and rinse the joints clean.
And finally, chemical cleaning is like a bath for your historic building. I use tailored chemicals to remove pollutants and stains off the facade and then pressure wash the chemicals off.
Preparation and Planning
One of the most important aspects of any masonry restoration project is the preparation. In order to successfully complete the task at hand, I need to inspect the site to see what I’m up against. Once I see the extent of the damage that needs restoring, I will develop a plan to restore your building in the safest possible manner. True craftsmen understand that there are risks involved in every restoration project, not just for the labourers but for any visitors or people passing by. By making sure that I am operating within the necessary safety regulations at all times, I can proceed with our work with confidence.
Once I have developed a plan and prepared the site for the restoration process, the next step involves preparing the joints for restoration. I start by cutting the joints back with a diamond or carbide blade, cutting down on labour and leaving the brick or block damage free.
The Right Mortar Mixture
Mortar performs many functions within a wall system. It is the cushion between the units, it is the weather resistant barrier and it keeps the strength of the unit. Given its important purpose, it is important to note that not all mortar mixtures are made equal. Your building is unique and therefore its mortar needs are unique as well.
This is where Zaps Masonry Contracting’s experience is such a huge asset. I can quickly identify the right mixture your building needs to restore its strength and beauty for years to come.
From there, the slow and tedious task of pointing will begin. The size of your building’s joints will determine the size of tools I use. Good thing Zaps Masonry has a variety of different of tools on hand to get the job done as quickly as possible.
Contact Me Today
If you suspect that your building can benefit from masonry restoration, give Zaps Masonry a call today so that I can schedule an inspection. I can restore all sorts of buildings, including historical sites. Your building, whether it’s historic, residential or commercial, deserves the very best, which is why you should give me a call right away.
